Chelsea left-back Ryan Bertrand is on the verge of joining Aston Villa on loan until the end of the season.

The England international has found himself behind Cesar Azpilicueta and Ashley Cole in the Stamford Bridge pecking order and will join Paul Lambert’s Villa in the hope of securing more regular action.

The imminent deal has been confirmed by Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho, who said he was keen for Bertrand to get more games.

Mourinho said: “We decided that Bertrand can go on loan until the end of the season. He needs to play. He is going to Villa.”

The 24-year-old Champions League winner is expected to tie up his switch very soon.